KERALA TOUR

Day wise Itinerary

• Day 1 : ARRIVE CHENNAI

  Arrive Chennai by International flight. Assistance upon arrival & transfer to hotel. Madras, now called Chennai, the first city of Tamil Nadu and the Gateway to the South of India, is 350 years old. This fourth largest city in India grew from the fort that Francis Day and Andrew Cogan of East India Company built on a narrow spit of no-man's land, which was obtained as a grant from the local governors of the region in early 17th century. The 5-square kilometer sand strip Francis Day was granted has now grown into a city of about 170 sq Kms with a population of about 6 million. Chennai was the first British major settlement in India, and it was here that many who went on to build the empire first learned their trade. Hence the city is replete with much that is of significance in British Indian history. The older settlements of this area have stories to tell too, and the city is an amalgam of ancient and more modern history. The particularly charming features of Chennai are its allegiance to ancient traditions, no matter how modernized it has become and its willingness to spread out further. It is a city that adheres to the leisurely tempo of the life of a world of yesterday; a city whose values of the other day still survive amidst the humdrum bustle of today; a city that still retains the charm, culture, hospitality and courtesies of the ages. Overnight in Chennai

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 2 : CHENNAI / KANCHIPURAM / MAHABALIPURAM

  After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for the city tour of Chennai visiting the Cathedral of San Thome, Fort George, St. Mary's Church, Chennai Museum and Kapaleeswara Temple. The Cathedral of San Thome is the last resting places of St. Thomas the Apostle who brought Christianity to India in 52 AD. Fort George is where most of Chennai's history was written. These are focal points of our visit. St. Mary's Church within the fort was built in 1678 - 80, and Robert Clive was married in this church in 1753. Elihu Yale who in his later years founded the famous Yale University in the U. S., was one of the early governors of Madras as it was then known. Today the fort houses the Secretariat and the Legislative Assembly. Chennai Museum is famous for its splendid collection of Chola bronzes. Kapaleeswarar Temple, built over many centuries, has an intricately carved gopuram (gateway). This ancient Shiva Temple is a delightful introduction to Dravidian temple sculpture and architecture. The magnificent 37-m tall gopuram is profusely carved. The crowded cosmogony of stucco gods, goddesses and saints depict important mythical legends that abound Hinduism. Later transfer to Mahabalipuram by car (75 kms / 3-4 hrs drive including en-route visit Kanchipuram). Kanchipuram, literally meaning the 'City of Gold' or the 'Golden City' and is one of the seven sacred cities in India. An erstwhile capital of the Pallavas and Cholas - 7th to 10th Century AD, Kanchipuram is dotted with soaring spires of literally a hundred or more temples. It has been a seat of learning and a centre of culture since early times. Kanchipuram is also the home of the South Indian silk. We will have the opportunity to see the looms in the homes of weavers. Weaving is a cottage industry here. Visit the Kailasanthar Temple which was built in the 8th century AD by the Pallavas. It is an excellent example of early Dravidian architecture. Ekambareswarar Temple is dedicated to Shiva, where Shiva is worshipped in the form of "Prithvi" (earth). Visit the thousand-pillared hall of Varadarajaswami Temple, well known for its intricate carving in granite. Arrive in Mahabalipuram & check-in at the hotel. Mahabalipuram, Mamallapuram is a historical retreat set amidst natural beauty. This was the ancient seaport of the Pallavas who were great connoisseurs of art. Though ravaged by sea and wind, these unique temples and caves hewn out of solid granite still bear testimony to the magnificent heritage of Dravidian architecture and the genius of the Pallavas. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight in Mahabalipuram

  • Hotspots : Kapaleeswarar Temple, Ekambareswarar Temple
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 3 : IN MAHABALIPURAM

  After leisure breakfast at the hotel, visit the glorious Shore Temple, one of the oldest in South India, which stands on the seashore with its paved forecourts. See the great bas-relief of Arjuna's penance, the five Rathas, the Mahishasura Mardhini, Krishna and the Varaha Mandapas (Caves). Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight in Mahabalipurm

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 4 : MAHABALIPURAM / PONDICHERRY

  After leisure breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Pondicherry by car (120 kms / 3 ½ hrs drive). Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Pondicherry upholds the French tradition to this day. The town raised phoenix - like after the British literally razed it to the ground in the 18th century. It is home to the much acclaimed philosopher Sri Aurobindo Gosh, a onetime Bengal revolutionary who later took to spiritual path and the founder of the Aurobindo Ashram. Pondicherry is known for its French architecture and cuisine.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 5 : PONDICHERRY

  Visit Auroville. Designed in February 1968, the City of Dawn was set up as the place of constant progress of unending education, an experiment in international living and understanding. Auroville aims to bridge the past and the future and belongs to all humanity. The Matri mandir (pavilion of the Mother) is the soul, the living symbol of Auroville's aspiration for the Divine. Also visit Aurobindo Ashram, founded in mid the 20th century by Sri Aurobindo. Various craft units – paper manufacturing, silk batik and marble printing, are run by the Ashram and are worth a visit. Overnight in Pondicherry

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 6 : PONDICHERRY/ CHIDAMBARAM / THANJAVUR

  After breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Thanjavur by car (170 kms / 6-7) hrs drive including en-route visit Chidambaram). Chidambaram was the capital of the Cholas from 907 to 1310 AD. The name is derived from Chit Ambaram which literally means 'wisdom and intelligence infused into the atmosphere'. Lord Nataraja, an aspect of the Divine, is said to have emerged from the sacred space as the Cosmic Dancer and performed His Cosmic Dance before two of his devotees. It is a special temple with an unusual vimana over the Sanctum Sanctorum, which holds the Divine as 'Space' without any form. The 108 Karanas (poses) of the Classical Dance form of South India are depicted in sculpture on the walls of the temple and are excellent. Upon arrival in Thanjavur, check-in at hotel. Thanjavur was the capital of the powerful Chola Dynasty, from in the 10th to 13th centuries AD. Today, it is a big town set amidst the lush rice fields in the delta of river Cauvery. Overnight in Thanjavur

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 7 : THANJAVUR / TRICHY / CHETTINADU

  After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for the city tour of Thanjavur visiting the magnificent Brihadeeswara Temple completed in 1010 AD by Raja Chola. This temple is a living testimony to the sculptural and architectural excellence of the Cholas. It is to be seen to be admired and believed. Visit Thanjavur Palace, partly built by the Nayaks in 1550 AD and partly by the Marathas. Also visit Saraswathi Mahal Library which has an extensive collection of over 30,000 manuscripts, palm leaf inscriptions and books. Later transfer to Chettinadu ai by car (190 kms / 5-6 hrs drive including en-route visit Trichy) . Trichy, a town in the Cauvery delta, was a Chola citadel in 2 BC. The present town and the fort were built by the Nayak Kings of Madurai in 16-17 century. Visit the temple dedicated to Ganesha on the magnificent Rock Fort which is 84 m high. The 437 steps cut into the rock lead up to the temple built at its highest point. The view of the countryside from the temple is superb. Overnight in Chettinadu.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 8 : CHETTINADU

  After breakfast at the hotel visit amazing architectural old houses ,Athangudi man made tile factory , Chettinad cotton and fabric weaving centre, the handicraft centers (depending on season) antique shopping, visiting the local daily markets, Pillayarpatti ( Pilliarpatti) temple, Thirumayam fort .Overnight in Chettinadu.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 9 : CHETTINADU / MADURAI

  After breakfast at the hotel, proceed to Madurai (150km /3hrs). Upon arrival in Madurai, check-in at the hotel. Madurai Situated on the banks of the Vaigai River, the ancient capital of the Pandyan Kings is the sacred city of Madurai. Legend has it that the divine nectar (Maduram) falling from Lord Shiva's locks gave the place its name. Overnight in Madurai

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 10 : IN MADURAI

  After breakfast at the hotel, proceed for the city tour of Madurai visiting the Tirumal Nayak Palace constructed in the Indo-Saracenic style in 1639 AD. The curved dome, standing without the support of a girder or rafter, is an architectural feat. Pass by the Mariamman Teppakulam - the tank with a mandapam in the center. Also visit Shree Meenakshi temple. Afternoon: Free at leisure Late evening : Attend night ceremony at the Meenakshi Temple. This ceremony takes place every evening at 9 PM, when the temple bronze of Lord Shiva is carried to the bed chamber of Parvati. The procession is accompanied by religious prayer and temple music. Overnight in Madurai

  • Hotspots : Meenakshi Temple
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 11 : MADURAI / MUNNAR

  later transfer to Munnar by car (175 kms / 5 hrs drive). Arrive in Munnar & check-in at the hotel. Situated at 1,524 m above sea level, Munnar is the highest town of Kerala, with a cool bracing climate exuding an old world charm. The atmosphere is fragrant with extensive tea and cardamom plantations. There are enchanting high ranges, lakes, streams and beautiful view of low-lying clouds and the mist filled valleys. Rest of the day free at leisure. Overnight in Munnar

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 12 : IN MUNNAR

  Breakfast at the hotel. Morning : City tour of Munnar. visit Eravikulam national park ,highest peak in south India,(also you can see the mountain goat there ) Tea Museum etc...Overnight in Munna

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 13 : MUNNAR / PERIYAR

  After early breakfast at the hotel, transfer to Thekkady by car (140 kms / 3-4 hrs drive). Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel.Periyar Tiger Reserve, 777 sq kms in area, is set in a rich, mixed deciduous forest, interspersed with open areas of tall grass. Periyar has a splendid artificial lake dotted with snags of dead wood, which provides a perch for water birds: darter, grey heron, egret and kingfisher. It is one of the finest habitats for the Asiatic elephant. These enormous mammals swim in the waters and streams and usually can be observed during an exciting boat ride. You may view a tiger, leopard, sambar, wild dog, barking deer, the unique Nilgiri langur-the lion tailed macaque and a variety of birds. Afternoon: Visit Periyar National Park by boat to see the wildlife in their natural habitat. Overnight in Thekkady

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 14 : PERIYAR

  Early morning: Visit Periyar National Park by walk to see the wildlife in their natural habitat. Return to hotel for breakfast After breakfast visit Spice garden Kerala is rich in spices as it is a part of our tradition and custom. Here the masters of Ayurveda have dedicated their lifespan to science for the well-being of mankind and discovered the use of spices for medicinal purposes. Spices also play an important role in the Kerala cuisine, non-ayurvedic medicine, and cosmetics. Periyar, due to its location in the lower mountains around 1000 meters above sea level is the only reason why it is blessed with numerous types of spices Over night in Thekkady

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 15 : PERIYAR / ALLEPPEY- HOUSEBOAT

  After breakfast, transfer to Alleppey boat jetty by car (170 kms / 4-5 hrs drive). Upon arrival, embark on your private houseboat and sail through Vembanad Lake. To experience this world of simple pleasures, you'll skim past ancient Chinese fishing nets, water lilies, lush paddy fields, coir villages, rustic homes, temples, churches and coconut groves. Your houseboat will have a captain besides a cook cum attendant. You will be served delicious lunch & dinner during your stay on the houseboat. At around 5 pm, the houseboat will be docked at some nice place as after sunset, sailing is not allowed on the lake because the fishermen come to collect their catch. Dinner & overnight on the HOUSEBOAT .

  • Hotspots : Vembanad Lake
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 16 : ALLEPPEY / COCHIN

  After leisure breakfast on the houseboat, disembark upon arrival at Alleppey boat jetty, where your car will be waiting for you to transfer to you Cochin by car (60 Kms / 1 ½ hrs drive). Upon arrival, check-in at the hotel. Cochin (Kochi) was born in a storm, nurtured in rivalry, and established as the Crossroads of the Battling Empires of Europe: Portuguese, Dutch and British. In the 1340's torrential rains filled the Periyar River, which broke through to the Arabian Sea and formed Kochi's protected harbour. Trading ships soon sailed in: and out. The much-photographed Chinese fishing nets at the harbour-mouth, best seen at sunset, testify to Cochin's preEuropean association with China. In 1502, Portuguese Seafarer Vasco da Gama came to Kochi seeking spices. He found his spices, launched Europe's great Age of Exploration, and prayed in the first European church in Asia and converted many of the locals to Christianity. Unlike the Portuguese, Kochi's kings were very tolerant of other faiths. European Jews, fleeing persecution at home, settled in Jew Town near the Mattancherry Palace of the Hindu king and prosper. Evening: Attend Kathakali dance performance. Kathkali is the dance form of Kerala and is recognized as one of the four major classical Indian styles. Virtually nothing about Kathkali is naturalistic because it depicts the world of Gods and Demons. Although it bears the unmistakable influences of the indigenous folk rituals, Kathkali literally means ` story-play’, is through to have crystallized into a distinct theatre form during the 17th century. The plays are based on three major Hindu epics, the Mahabharata, the Ramayana and the Bhagavata Purana. Men play both the male and female roles. Overnight in Cochin

  • Hotspots : Mattancherry Palace, Kathakali
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 17 : IN COCHIN

  After leisure breakfast at the hotel, proceed for the city tour of Cochin visiting the synagogue - built in 1568 AD. It contains Grand Scrolls of the Old Testament and the copper plates containing the privileges granted to the Jews by the Cochin rulers. The floor of the Synagogue is paved with exquisite Chinese hand painted tiles. Overlooking the Jewish synagogue is Mattancherry Palace, home of the former Rajas of Cochin. Today it holds royal palanquins, weapons, robes and beautiful murals of ancient Hindu epics painted in vegetable dyes. When the Dutch ousted the Portuguese on January 7, 1663, the people of Cochin renamed Mattancherry Palace as the "Dutch Palace" to honour the Netherlanders. Visit St. Francis Church, built originally by the Portuguese in 1510 AD. It is believed to be the oldest church in India. The building was originally constructed out of timber and later reconstructed in stone masonry during the 16th century. Vasco Da Gama, who died in Cochin in 1524, was buried here before his remains were returned to Portugal 14 years later. Also visit the Chinese fishing nets at Fort Kochi, located in the Kochi city of Kerala, make up a very popular tourist attraction. They are fixed land installations, which are used for a very unique and unusual method of fishing. Operated from the shore, these nets are set up on bamboo and teak poles and held horizontally by huge mechanisms, which lower them into the sea. They look somewhat like hammocks and are counter-weighed by large stones tied to ropes. Overnight in Cochin

  • Hotspots : Jewish Synagogue, St. Francis Church, Dutch Palace, Mattancherry Palace
  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

• Day 18 : DEPRAT COCHIN

  Leave Cochin for onward destination by International flight.

  • Themes : Hill Stations & Valleys

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Inclusions

• EP (No Meal)

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Package Start From

• Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India, Asia

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Terms & Conditions

Payment Terms & Methods :
Some Advance Percentage of total booking amount
Airfare/Transport fare to be paid full at one time in advance.

Cancellation & Refund Policy :
Upon cancellation, refund will be made after deducting the Retention Amount.

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